| Introduced By: Senators Graziano, Goodwin, Walton, Kells and Roney |
| Date Introduced: January 16, 1997 |
| Referred To: Read and Passed |
WHEREAS, Public service and a love for one's neighborhood have long combined to propel the Fargnoli family into politics. For nearly 25 years, the Fargnolis -- first Ralph and then Evelyn -- have been a dynamic force in Democratic politics in Providence's historic Fifth Ward, which includes the Mount Pleasant area of the Capital City; and
WHEREAS, When City Council President Ralph Fargnoli died in 1981, his seat on the Council was filled through the election of his equally committed and dedicated wife. Becoming only the second woman elected to the Providence City Council, Evelyn Fargnoli has now become the first woman ever elected President of the City Council. It is an honor she richly deserves; and
WHEREAS, Serving as Chairwoman of the powerful Finance Committee for the past five years, Evelyn Fargnoli has also been the Acting Council President for more than a year in the absence of President James Petrosinelli, who passed away last May; and
WHEREAS, Asked recently why she decided to enter politics fifteen years ago, Evelyn Fargnoli answered that she did so because "I always felt a commitment to my neighborhood. I always felt it was a job that needed to be done, and I could probably do it." Having already earned the trust and confidence of her grateful constituents, as well as the unqualified admiration and respect of her colleagues on the City Council, there can be no doubt that Evelyn Fargnoli has succeeded in representing the best interests of her neighborhood and all of the other neighborhoods in Providence. Her recent election simply confirms the splendid job she has already done and the confidence of all in her future leadership, now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Senate of the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations is hereby pleased and proud to congratulate Evelyn Fargnoli on her recent election to the position of President of the Providence City Council. Having already announced that she does not plan to run for re-election when her term expires in 1999, the citizens of the Capital City can be certain that, under her direction, their best interests will continue to guide and stimulate the efforts of the City Council for the remainder of the century. A splendid example of what an elected public official should be, Evelyn Farnoli is truly an inspiration to us all; and be it further
RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and he hereby is authorized and directed to transmit a duly certified copy of this resolution to Providence City Council President Evelyn Fargnoli.
